Nani will not be leaving Premier League leaders Manchester United in January

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson insists Nani will not be sold during the January transfer window.

Last Updated: 30/12/12 4:19pm

Nani: Winger needed by Manchester United, says Sir Alex Ferguson

There have been suggestions that the Portuguese winger could be on his way out of Old Trafford after failing to command a regular starting place this season.

Arsenal have been linked with the 26-year-old, who is currently sidelined with a hamstring problem, but Ferguson has dashed their hopes.

"We won't be letting him go. We need a Nani," said the Scot in the Sunday Mirror.

"His contract isn't up for a year and a half. He offers something different from the other players. He's an incredible talent, the boy.

"Unfortunately, he's injured at the moment. We have sent him over to Dubai for a break, to help him in his recovery.

"He's not far away but he's far enough away. I don't think I will get him until the middle of January.

"He's got a future here. Why would I want to let him go?"

January deals

Ferguson has also confirmed that he is unlikely to make any moves in January.

"To get a player in January is very difficult because it has to be a player who is going to improve on what you have already got," he said.

"Big clubs don't want to sell their best players and I don't see someone like Chelsea buying a player who is not available for Europe.

"I think there will probably be one big signing in January - whether that will be Arsenal or Chelsea, I don't know.

"I can't see Atletico Madrid selling Falcao, but David Villa is available at Barcelona because he isn't getting a game. But we're in good shape. Once we get all our players fit, we'll have a squad of 25 or 26."

Don't miss any live and exclusive football coverage this festive season. Click here to visit Sky Sports' Festive Calendar